Begin Japanology
Season 2 Episode 35 - Festivals
In Japan, festivals are known as matsuri. Many matsuri are colorful and boisterous occasions. Matsuri are typically associated with a Shinto shrine. Local people gather to pray and give thanks to the enshrined deity for agricultural bounty, health, safety and security. Over the years, these gatherings have evolved into elaborate events that frequently feature dancing, masks and magnificent floats. Entire local communities may be drawn into the preparations for festivals, which have nurtured some of the most refined arts and crafts in Japan. Even the sophisticated Noh theatre has festival origins, and, in some communities, apprentices will spend years learning a craft such as woodcarving specifically for its application in an annual matsuri. On this edition of BEGIN Japanology, we present some of the most famous festivals in Japan and consider the links to community and culture.
Episodes in Season 2
Nishijin-ori
28 min
Kyoto Lacquerware
28 min
Sake
28 min
Katsura Rikyu
28 min
Bonsai
28 min
The Four Seasons
28 min
Hina Dolls
28 min
Nagasaki
28 min
Five-Storey Pagodas
28 min
Cherry Blossoms
28 min
Chopsticks
28 min
Aizome
28 min
Bunraku
28 min
Kiriko Cut Glass
28 min
Traditional Folk Houses
28 min
Tea Ceremony
28 min
Soba
28 min
Origami
28 min
Imari Porcelain
28 min
Folding Fan
28 min
Kaiseki Cuisine
28 min
The Sounds of Japan
28 min
Masks
28 min
Satoyama
28 min
Kendo
28 min
The Fragrances of Japan
28 min
Spinning Tops
28 min
Rock and Stone
28 min
Ink Brushes
28 min
Tsukemono
28 min
Dogs
28 min
Ramen
28 min
Rice
28 min
Shinto Shrine
28 min
Festivals
28 min
Shinkansen
28 min
Gagaku
28 min
Marriage
28 min
Shogi
28 min
Nabe Cuisine
28 min
Sword
28 min
